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Stavridis Pleased with Work of Guantanamo Troops

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070713-13
Release Date: 7/13/2007 5:14:00 PM

By Army Spc. Shanita Simmons, Joint Task Force-Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- The commander of U.S. Southern Command visited Joint Task Force (JTF) Guantanamo on July 9 where he was pleased to see projects underway to improve detainee and migrant operations here.

Adm. James G. Stavridis, who toured various facilities and witnessed the progress of ongoing projects since his last visit in June, mentioned that he was particularly impressed with the many improvements made within the detention facilities.

During the tour, JTF leaders highlighted the current status of construction plans underway to ensure detainees continue to be housed in a safe and humane environment.

Stavridis also greeted members of the JTF guard force and thanked them for their support of the mission.

“I am incredibly proud of the guard force who are just as professional as can be; they are doing a terrific job under very demanding circumstances every day,” said Stavridis. “The super work that I see in all the facilities, and particularly the new and improved facilities, is impressive.”

Stavridis received an update about plans to expand migrant operations on the leeward side of the naval station. JTF engineers explained plans to build structures that will house more than 10,000 migrants.

Stavridis indicated that the naval station may become an integral platform in responding to a migrant crisis.

Stavridis added that there is an incredible strategic value in having a naval station located within the Caribbean. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay is the only full-spectrum mission capable U.S. military installation in the Southern Command area of operations with both a port and airfield capable of transporting logistics and personnel during a crisis.

While Stavridis focused on logistical operations, his wife visited Guantanamo facilities geared towards improving troopers’ morale and attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Fleet and Family Support Center’s annex located in Camp America’s One Stop building. She also visited recreational facilities, such as the liberty centers.

Stavridis told JTF personnel he will continue to periodically visit the facilities here to oversee projects aimed at improving operations.

Stavridis assumed command of Southern Command in 2006 and has visited five times. His command’s area of focus comprises more than 30 countries and covers approximately 15.6 million square miles, which includes the Caribbean Sea with its 12 island nations and other territories.